Au Cheval
The Chicago import (from celebrated restaurateur Brendan Sodikoff), which clearly boasts a built-in cult following, debuted to much fanfare on a nondescript alleyway in Tribeca. And though it calls itself a diner, the eatery's exposed brick walls, plush banquettes, and exceptional menu items certainly rank it a few steps above. Of course, the main draw (and reason New York foodies are seriously freaking out) is the burger. You can pile it high with two black Angus beef patties, American cheese, bacon, a fried egg, pickles, and dijonnaise. All sandwiched between a perfectly toasted bun.
Au Cheval,33 Cortlandt Alley
[Photo via @imma_eat_this]